Buckingham County Planning Commission 7/27/2026

The Buckingham County Board of Supervisors Planning Commission held a meeting on July 27, 2026, primarily focused on public concerns regarding a proposed comprehensive plan amendment related to utility corridors for high-voltage transmission lines. Numerous residents expressed opposition to designating preferred transmission line corridors, citing potential negative impacts on farmland, historic sites, rural character, and property rights. They urged the commission to defer the amendment for further study and to avoid pre-approving corridors that could facilitate utility companies' expansion without adequate local input or protection for conservation easements. The commission discussed the possibility of tabling the amendment until September to allow for additional review and potential state assistance. Additionally, the commission considered zoning ordinance amendments related to industrial and power generation areas, including potential technological overlays to encourage business growth and data center development. A separate agenda item involved approving a special use permit for an auto sales operation with conditions limiting the number of vehicles. The commission voted to forward this application to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation for approval. Overall, the meeting emphasized careful consideration of land use policies affecting utility infrastructure and rural preservation, with no immediate adoption of the utility corridor amendment.